Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Salad with Creamy Garlic Dressing

This salad is what you make when you want something fresh but still filling. The chicken turns crisp in the air fryer, the dressing comes together in one bowl, and the whole thing feels like a proper meal, not a side.

---

Ingredients

For the chicken

• 2 small chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the salad

• 1 large romaine lettuce heart
• A handful of shaved or grated hard cheese (Parmesan-style)
• A small handful of croutons or toasted bread pieces

For the dressing

• 3 tbsp plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

---

Instructions

1. Start with the chicken.
   Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place them in the air fryer basket and cook at 190°C / 375°F for about 12–14 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.
2. Use the waiting time well.
   While the chicken cooks, tear the lettuce directly into a large serving bowl. No knife needed.
3. Mix the dressing in the same bowl.
   Add yogurt, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a small corner of the bowl and stir until smooth.
4. Slice the chicken last.
   Let the chicken rest for a minute, then cut it into thick slices.
5. Assemble with minimal effort.
   Toss lettuce gently with the dressing, top with chicken, cheese, and croutons.
6. Serve immediately.
   This salad is best eaten while the chicken is still warm and crisp.

---

Typical Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overcrowding the air fryer: chicken won’t crisp properly.
• Too much dressing: keep it light so the salad stays fresh.
• Cutting chicken too early: resting keeps it juicy.

Also worth trying: Quick Chicken with Sage and Crispy Ham, Antillean-Style Chicken, Indian-Style Chicken